Zhang Ji. Photo: Web

Huawei is accelerating recruitment of the so-called "geniuses" from around the world as it faces rising external pressure and a US semiconductor ban, with one new Chinese graduate receiving a top salary of 2.01 million yuan ($287,949) a year.

The recruitment program, reportedly initiated by Huawei founder and CEO Ren Zhengfei last year, has been described by analysts as a countermove to resist US government bullying, analysts say.

Ren noted that Huawei will not hire Americans in principle. "As long as you have US citizenship, a green card, or permanent US residency, you will be subjected to its long-arm jurisdiction. The strength of the US as a nation is not land, it's the talent. What can we learn from the US? Attract talent. There will be a lot of talented people coming to Huawei in the future," said Ren.

Zhang Ji, who was born in 1993 and has a PhD in computer science from Huazhong University of Science and Technology, based in Wuhan, was recruited by Huawei and offered an annual salary of 2.01 million yuan.

Zhang said Huawei focuses on new technology research direction and scientific research capability, and that research direction is what Huawei values most, according to a report from Changjiang Daily Tuesday.

"Huawei has recently been subjected to some sanctions abroad. I hope I can put what I have learned to good use in the most difficult time for Huawei and do something meaningful to the best of my ability. If possible, I will try my best to help Huawei through the difficulties," said Zhang.

"Salary is important, but I wouldn't take it too seriously. I value the company more for giving me a research platform, a space where I can have a longer view on research and development," Zhang added.

Huawei last year said that it would hire 20 to 30 top young college graduates from all over the world, and that number would increase annually to enhance the team's abilities.

Huawei's recruitment standards for "genius youngsters" are very strict and generally require seven steps: resume screening, written examination, initial interview, supervisor interview, several ministerial interviews, president interview and human resources interview. Salaries for successful candidates are divided into three ranks. Thus far, only four have been offered the program's highest salary.

Zhang is the only top-four earner who did not graduate from a top university in China. He said that showed that self-improvement is important in Huawei's talent selection process, and that qualifications are not paramount.

The new recruitment drive comes as the US intensifies its attack on Huawei, which has pushed the Chinese tech firm to ramp up hunting for talent before the latest US chip ban comes into effect.

Huawei hopes that hiring more talented young people will empower it to overcome the obstacles set up by the US government. And, Ren has on many occasions mentioned an unnamed Russian mathematician who helped the company achieve a technical breakthrough move from 2G to 3G.

Ren visited several top Chinese universities last week, highlighting the importance of developing homegrown talent as the global tech race continues to heat up.

From Wednesday to Friday, Ren visited Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Fudan University, Southeast University and Nanjing University. 

Global Times